When Apple TV+ introduced Side Quest, an anthology spin-off from the popular series Mythic Quest, it promised a unique experiment. Anthologies can be a hit or miss—either offering a creative playground or a disjointed collection of ideas. Fortunately, Side Quest lands on the positive side of that spectrum. It successfully stretches the essence of Mythic Quest into new territories, exploring how a video game can shape people’s lives in often surprising and, at times, emotionally resonant ways.
The series stands out with its four distinct episodes, each telling a self-contained story that keeps the audience engaged and guessing. While the anthology format allows for freedom and variety, it also means some episodes fare better than others. Nevertheless, the series overall leans more towards success than failure, offering both humor and heart.
The first episode sets the tone by following a group of childhood friends who reunite each year for an in-game raid. This heartfelt narrative serves as a love letter to anyone who has ever scheduled their life around a game night, only to be confronted by the realities of adulthood. The episode’s emotional depth is enhanced by the strong chemistry among the cast, with humor that feels natural rather than forced.
The second episode shifts gears to tell the story of a struggling comic book shop owner looking to breathe new life into his business by selling Mythic Quest merchandise. The underdog story strikes a chord with viewers, combining nostalgia with the tough realities of running a brick-and-mortar store. The sharp comedic timing is complemented by genuinely touching moments that bring depth to the narrative.
Arguably the most ambitious episode is the third one, which centers around an orchestra hired to perform the Mythic Quest game’s soundtrack. This story tackles the tension between art and commerce with a mix of humor and insight, using the awkward interactions between classically trained musicians and the world of gaming to create comedic gold. The performances are stellar, adding a layer of charm to the quirky premise.
The final episode, titled The Last Raid, takes viewers entirely within the game itself—a risky yet inventive choice. The episode visually dazzles, with the in-game sequences expertly designed to immerse the audience. However, while the concept is engaging, the emotional payoff falls short, leaving the episode feeling more like a tech demo than a fully realized narrative.
Guest stars in Side Quest bring additional flair to the series. Rob McElhenney returns briefly as Ian Grimm, while Derek Waters and Anna Konkle shine with impeccable comedic timing. The show’s writing avoids over-explaining jokes, trusting the audience to pick up on the humor’s subtleties and ensuring the comedy remains sharp.
Despite its many strengths, Side Quest is not without its flaws. While the anthology format fosters creativity, some episodes feel like standalone short films rather than necessary additions to the Mythic Quest universe. While certain stories connect deeply, others might seem more like bonus content, particularly for those unfamiliar with gaming culture. As a result, some episodes may appear niche and less accessible to a broader audience.
Visually, the series maintains the sleek production values of its predecessor, with immersive in-game sequences that contrast beautifully against grounded real-world settings. This visual contrast enhances the series’ exploration of its themes, without feeling like a gimmick.
For fans of Mythic Quest, Side Quest is a refreshing and worthwhile addition. It doesn’t attempt to replicate the original’s long-form character arcs, but rather thrives in its own unique space, offering fresh perspectives on the impact of gaming. Whether it’s through its humor, poignancy, or unpredictability, the series lives up to its title—providing a memorable, side adventure that complements the original series while standing on its own merits.
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